If you have been a victim of sexual harassment at work, you are likely flooded with emotions. You may have trouble deciding what to do and how to proceed at work. Here are some tips to help guide you during this difficult time
Avoid the temptation to quit right away. It is understandable to want to quit if you have been a victim of harassment. However, the law requires that if there is a sexual harassment policy at your office that you report the harassment through internal channels first.
Continue to report all instances of harassment or instances of retaliation for reporting the harassment. Your employer will need documentation of each time the harassment occurs, particularly if it continues after your first report.
Understand the definition of sexual harassment. Under the law, sexual harassment is any harassment due to your gender. It does not have to be sexual in nature. If you have been bullied or given unfavorable treatment due to your gender, it is sexual harassment and you may have a claim.
Work with your employer to find a solution. You probably don’t want to work with your harasser again. However, the law does not require your employer to fire the harasser. Other forms of discipline may be appropriate, including additional training for the harasser or transferring one party to another department.
Document everything in writing. To make sure there are no misunderstandings, file your internal complaint in writing. Be as detailed as possible as to the nature of the harassment, and include dates, times, and all other pertinent information your company may need to respond to your complaint.
Check your employee handbook. You should report the harassment to your company per the sexual harassment policy. You may find this policy in your employee handbook, a union contract, or initial hire paperwork. There should be a designated person in the policy to take your report.
Cooperate with the investigation. Your employer is obligated to investigate. They may interview you, the harasser, and witnesses. You should cooperate with this investigation as much as possible. Understand that even if the investigators do not give your name, the harasser may be able to determine that you filed the complaint.
Understand you are not alone. Your complaint may uncover even more victims of sexual harassment at your company. Even if it does not, others may have been victims in the past but may have left due to the harassment.
Turn to NJ Sexual Harassment Lawyers
If your employer is not addressing your sexual harassment complaint, the law firm of John J. Zidziunas & Associates has a team NJ sexual harassment lawyers available to confidentially review your case. For further information, call 973-509-8500, email info@jjzlawfirm.com, or visit http://employmentdiscrimination.com/.
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